Characterization of the biofilm structure and microbial diversity of sulfate-reducing bacteria from petroleum produced water supplemented by different carbon sources.

Colonization by sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in environments associated with oil is mainly dependent on the availability of sulfate and carbon sources. The formation of biofilms by SRB increases the corrosion of pipelines and oil storage tanks, representing great occupational and operational risks and respective economic losses for the oil industry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the addition of acetate, butyrate, lactate, propionate and oil on the structure of biofilm formed in carbon steel coupons, as well as on the diversity of total bacteria and SRB in the planktonic and sessile communities from petroleum produced water. The biofilm morphology, chemical composition, average roughness and the microbial diversity was analyzed. In all carbon sources, formation of dense biofilm without morphological and/or microbial density differences was detected, with the most of cells observed in the form of individual rods. The diversity and richness indices of bacterial species in the planktonic community was greater than in the biofilm. Geotoga was the most abundant genus, and more than 85% of SRB species were common to all treatments. The functional predicted profile shown that the observed genres in planktonic communities were related to the reduction of sulfate, sulfite, elementary sulfur and other sulfur compounds, but the abundance varied between treatments. For the biofilm, the functions predicted profile for the oil treatment was the one that most varied in relation to the control, while for the planktonic community, the addition of all carbon sources interfered in the predicted functional profile. Thus, although it does not cause changes in the structure and morphology biofilm, the supplementation of produced water with different carbon sources is associated with changes in the SRB taxonomic composition and functional profiles of the biofilm and the planktonic bacterial communities.

NS1 Recombinant Proteins Are Efficiently Produced in Pichia pastoris and Have Great Potential for Use in Diagnostic Kits for Dengue Virus Infections.

Dengue is one of the major diseases causing global public health concerns. Despite technological advances in vaccine production against all its serotypes, it is estimated that the dengue virus is responsible for approximately 390 million infections per year. Laboratory diagnosis has been the key point for the correct treatment and prevention of this disease. Currently, the limiting factor in the manufacture of dengue diagnostic kits is the large-scale production of the non-structural 1 (NS1) antigen used in the capture of the antibody present in the infected patients' serum. In this work, we demonstrate the production of the non-structural 1 protein of dengue virus (DENV) serotypes 1-4 (NS1-DENV1, NS1-DENV2, NS1-DENV3, and NS1-DENV4) in the methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris KM71H. Secreted recombinant protein was purified by affinity chromatography and characterized by SDS-PAGE and ELISA. The objectives of this study were achieved, and the results showed that P. pastoris is a good heterologous host and worked well in the production of NS1DENV 1-4 recombinant proteins. Easy to grow and quick to obtain, this yeast secreted ready-to-use proteins, with a final yield estimated at 2.8-4.6 milligrams per liter of culture. We reached 85-91% sensitivity and 91-93% specificity using IgM as a target, and for anti-dengue IgG, 83-87% sensitivity and 81-93% specificity were achieved. In this work, we conclude that the NS1 recombinant proteins are efficiently produced in P. pastoris and have great potential for use in diagnostic kits for dengue virus infections. The transformed yeast obtained can be used for production in industrial-scale bioreactors.

Potential Antivirals: Natural Products Targeting Replication Enzymes of Dengue and Chikungunya Viruses.

Dengue virus (DENV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) are reemergent arboviruses that are transmitted by mosquitoes of the Aedes genus. During the last several decades, these viruses have been responsible for millions of cases of infection and thousands of deaths worldwide. Therefore, several investigations were conducted over the past few years to find antiviral compounds for the treatment of DENV and CHIKV infections. One attractive strategy is the screening of compounds that target enzymes involved in the replication of both DENV and CHIKV. In this review, we describe advances in the evaluation of natural products targeting the enzymes involved in the replication of these viruses.

Lifestyle and vitamin D dosage in women with breast cancer / Relación de la vitamina D y el ejercicio físico en mujeres con cáncer de mama

Introduction: The prevention strategy of breast cancer is still the key factor for early diagnosis and the most effective method for tracking the disease. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association vitamin D level with breast cancer in women. Methods: This hospital case-control study was conducted with 181 women with breast cancer and 197 healthy controls. Vitamin D status, calcium, phosphorus and PTH serum dosage and data collection related to lifestyle and patient’s history, besides anthropometric measurements were performed. Univariate analysis (Chi-square and raw odds ratio) and multivariate analysis were performed through multivariate logistic regression. Results: This study shows a higher value of vitamin D in health controls (26.9 mg/dL) than in breast cancer women (24.8 mg/dL). Higher numbers of women with sufficient vitamin D status (34.85%) were found in control group than cancer group. Using the multiple logistic regression model, the family history of breast cancer (OR 36.37, 95%CI 4.75-278.50) and menopause (OR 5.17, 95% CI 2.72-9.80) had a direct association with breast cancer, while the level of vitamin D (OR 0.95, 95%CI 0.91-0.99) and moderate physical activity (OR 0.31, 95%CI 0.10-0.93) maintained the inverse associations with the disease. Conclusion: Vitamin D status and the practice of moderate physical activity were considered protective factors for breast cancer. However, menopause and family history of breast cancer were considered a risk factor for breast cancer (AU)

Introducción: la estrategia de prevención del cáncer de mama sigue siendo el factor clave para el diagnóstico precoz y el método más eficaz para el seguimiento de la enfermedad. Objetivo: este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar el nivel de vitamina D asociado con el cáncer de mama en las mujeres. Métodos: este estudio de casos y controles hospitalarios se llevó a cabo con 181 mujeres con cáncer de mama y 197 controles sanas. Se estudió el nivel de vitamina D, calcio, fósforo y la dosis de suero PTH; se recopilaron de datos relacionados con el estilo de vida y con la historia de las pacientes, además se realizaron mediciones antropométricas. El análisis univariante (Chi-cuadrado probabilidades y primas ratio) y el análisis multivariado se realizó mediante regresión logística multivariante. Resultados: este estudio muestra un valor más alto de vitamina D en los controles de salud (26,9 mg/dl) que en las mujeres con cáncer de mama (24,8 mg/dl). Se encontraron más mujeres con suficiente vitamina D (34,85%) en el grupo control que en el grupo de cáncer. Usando el modelo de regresión logística múltiple, la historia familiar de cáncer de mama (OR 36,37; IC del 95%: 4,75 a 278,50) y la menopausia (OR 5,17; IC del 95%: 2,72 a 9,80) se halló una relación directa con el cáncer de mama, mientras que el nivel de vitamina D (OR 0,95; IC del 95%: 0,91 a 0,99) y la actividad física moderada (OR 0,31; IC del 95%: 0,10 a 0,93) mantienen las asociaciones inversas con la enfermedad. Conclusión: el estado de vitamina D y la práctica de actividad física moderada se consideraron factores de protección para el cáncer de mama. Sin embargo, la menopausia y la historia familiar de cáncer de mama se consideran un factor de riesgo para el cáncer de mama (AU)

Association of inflammation, dyslipidemia, obesity and physical activity status in children

The aim of this study was to verify the association between inflammatory biomarkers, dyslipidemia, obesity and physical activity status in 10-years old children. Ninety-four children participated in this study and were classified into eutrophic (n=36), overweight (n=34) or obese (n=24) according to their body mass index (BMI). The genic expression of interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and chemokine C-C motif ligand 2 (CCL-2) mRNA; the serum concentration of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) and triglycerides; BMI, percentage of body fat (% BF) and waist circumference; and the number of steps per day were determined. The expression of IL-6, TNF-α and CCL-2 were associated (p < 0.05) positively with serum triglycerides, BMI, % BF and waist circumference, and negatively with serum HDL-c. No association (p > 0.05) between pro-inflammatory biomarkers and number of steps per day was found

Prevalência de conjuntivite adenoviral em clínica oftalmológica no município de Viçosa (MG) / Prevalence of adenoviral conjunctivitis at the ophthalmologic clinic on municipality of Viçosa/MG

Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência de Adenovírus como agente etiológico da conjuntivite, em clínica médica oftalmológica especializada, em Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Métodos: Amostras da secreção conjuntival de 91 pacientes clinicamente diagnosticados com conjuntivite foram submetidos à reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR), utilizando primers degenerados para a região codificadora do gene da proteína estrutural II. Posteriormente as amostras positivas foram submetidas a sequenciamento e genotipagem. Resultados: A análise dos resultados de PCR revelou prevalência de 36,3% de Adenovírus. Não havendo distinção entre os sexos e com maior prevalência na faixa etária de 26 a 65 anos com 60,60% dos casos positivos. O sequenciamento dos casos positivos por Adenovírus revelaram a presença dos sorotipos 3, 4, 7, 8 e 34 circulante na região. Conclusão: No município de Viçosa, dois em cada cinco casos de conjuntivite são de etiologia adenoviral.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Adenovirus as a etiologic agent of conjunctivitis on a ophthalmic clinic in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods: Samples of conjunctival secretion from 91 patients clinically diagnosed with conjunctivitis were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using degenerate primers targeted to the gene encoding the structural protein II. Positive samples were subsequently subjected to sequencing and genotyping. Results: PCR results showed 36.3% prevalence of Adenovirus. No differences between the sexes and was found to be higher in the age group 26-65 years with 60.60% of the positive cases. Sequencing of positive cases showed the presence of Adenovirus serotypes 3, 4, 7, 8, and 34 circulating in the region. Conclusion: In Viçosa two in five cases of conjunctivitis has Adenovirus as etiologic agent.

Defatted flaxseed meal prevents the appearance of aberrant crypt foci in the colon of mice increasing the gene expression of p53 / Harina de linaza desgrasada previene la aparición de focos de criptas aberrantes en colon de ratones aumentando de la expresión del gen de p53

Objective: The goal of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of defatted flaxseed meal on the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in mice treated with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). Materials and Methods: ACF were induced by intraperitoneal administration of 20 mg/kg body weight of DMH for 8 weeks. The animals were divided into three treatments (n=8): AIN93M diet without fibers + DMH (C-); AIN93M diet with defatted flaxseed meal (LIN); and AIN93M diet with defatted flaxseed meal + DMH (LINCA), for 15 weeks. The technique RT-PCR was used to evaluate the expression of p16, p21, p53, cyclin D1, and cyclin E in the distal colon. In addition, flow cytometric analysis of CD4 and CD8 spleen cells, the quantification of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in stool, the quantification of Bifidobacterium spp., Clostridium spp. in feces. Results: LIN and LINCA showed increased Bifidobacterium spp. compared with control (C-). In relation to the weight of the organs, the groups LIN and LINCA showed higher values for the liver and kidney compared with control (C-). Regarding ACF, the group LINCA presented fewer ACF in the middle and distal colon compared with control (C-). When we analyzed ACF with more than three crypts the group LIN and LINCA did not present ACF in the middle and distal segments. LINCA presented increased p53 gene expression. Conclusion: This finding suggests that defatted flaxseed meal reduces ACF by increasing the expression of p53 and increase Bifidobacterium spp (AU)

Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar el efecto preventivo de la harina de linaza desgrasada en el desarrollo de focos de criptas aberrantes (FCA) en ratones tratados con 1,2-dimethylhydrazina (DMH). Material y Métodos: FCA se indujo por inyección intraperitoneal de 20 mg / kg de DMH por kilogramo de peso corporal durante 8 semanas. Los animales fueron divididos en 3 grupos (n = 8): dieta sin fibra de la dieta AIN93M DMH + (C); Dieta AIN93M con harina de linaza desgrasada (LIN); dieta AIN93M y la dieta con harina de linaza desgrasada + DMH (Enlace) durante 15 semanas. RT-PCR se utilizó para evaluar la expresión de p16, p21, p53, ciclina D1, ciclina E y el colon distal. Los análisis CD4 y CD8 se realizaron con citometría de flujo, así como la cuantificación presencia de Bifidobacterium spp. y de Clostridium spp. en las heces. La cuantificación de ácidos grasos de cadena corta (AGCC) fue realizada por lo método de cromatografía de gas. Resultados: LIN y LINCA mostraron un aumento significativo de Bifidobacterium spp., en comparación con el control (C) (p<0,05). Con relación al peso de los órganos, los grupos LIN y LINCA mostraron valores aumentados de hígado y riñón en comparación con el control (C) (p<0,05). En cuanto a la FCA, los grupos FCA LINCA mostró menor en los dos puntos media y distal en comparación con el control (C) (p <0,05). Cuando analizamos FCA con más de tres focos de criptas aberrantes, los grupos LIN y LINCA no presentaron FCA en los segmentos medial y distal, en contraste con el grupo control (p <0,05). LINCA mostró aumento de la expresión del gen p53 (p <0,05). Conclusión: Estos resultados sugieren que la harina de linaza desgrasada reduce FCA, para aumentar la expresión de p53 (AU)

The complement system: importance in clinical practice / O sistema complemento: importância para a prática clínica

The complement system is a fundamental component of the host immune response. In addition to its effector activity against pathogens, it possesses functions such as opsonization and phagocytosis, removal of immune complexes and activation of the inflammatory process. The knowledge of the complement system is important in the investigation of numerous diseases that can be observed in cases of deficiencies in cascade proteins, their receptors, or regulatory proteins. Clinical and experimental evidence demonstrate the association between the complement system and several inflammatory conditions, as well as a greater susceptibility to infection among patients with complement system dysfunction. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to describe the three complement system pathways - the activation and effector mechanisms and their biochemical characteristics - and correlate them to certain clinical conditions.

Prebiotics prevent the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in the colon of Balb/C mice for increasing the gene expression of p16 protein / Los prebióticos previenen la aparición de focos de cripta aberrantes (FCA) en el colon de ratones Balb/C para aumentar la expresión génica de la proteína P16

Studies have shown fibers to be effective in reducing the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in rodents. Objective: The goal of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) and inulin prebiotics on the appearance of ACF in mice. Materials and Methods: The techniques used were: RT-PCR to evaluate the gene expression of p16, p21, p54, cyclin D1 and cyclin E in the distal colon; the quantification of Number of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and measurement of catalase activity in the liver and distal colon. The animals were divided into five treatments (n=8); C-: AIN93M diet without fibers + DMH (1,2-dimethylhydrazine); INL: AIN93M diet with inulin; INLCA: AIN93M diet with inulin + DMH; FOS: AIN93M diet with FOS; FOSCA: AIN93M diet with FOS + DMH, during 15 weeks. Results: Inulin prevented the appearance of ACF in the proximal, middle and distal colon, compared to the control without fibers. In the middle and distal colon, FOS was also effective in preventing the incidence of ACF. This effectiveness may be attributed to the increased gene expression of p16 following FOS treatment. Both prebiotics also decreased catalase activity in the distal colon, thus suggesting an antioxidant effect. Conclusion: These results suggesting an antioxidant effect prebiotics that may be attributed to the increased gene expression of p16 (AU)

Existen estudios que demuestran la eficacia de fibras para reducir la aparición de focos de cripta aberrantes (FCA) en roedores. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio consistió en investigar los efectos preventivos de los fructooligosacáridos (FOS) y el prebiótico inulina sobre la aparición de FCA en ratones. Materiales y métodos: Las técnicas empleadas fueron: RT-PCR para evaluar la expresión génica de p16, p21, p54, ciclina D1 y ciclina E en el colon distal; la cuantificación del Número de FCA y la medición de la actividad de la catalasa en el hígado y el colon distal. Los animales fueron divididos en cinco tratamientos (n=8); C-: dieta AIN93M sin fibra + DMH (1.2-dimetilhidrazina); INL: dieta AIN93M con inulina; INLCA: dieta AIN93M con inulina + DMH; FOS: dieta ANIN93M con FOS; FOSCA: dieta AIN93M con FOS + DMH, durante 15 semanas. Resultados: La inulina previno la aparición de FCA en el colon proximal, medio y distal, comparado con el control sin fibras. En el colon medio y distal, FOS también fue efectiva para prevenir la incidencia de FCA. Esta efectividad podría ser atribuida al aumento de la expresión génica de p16 tras el tratamiento con FOS. Ambos prebióticos también disminuyeron la actividad de la catalasa en el colon distal, lo que sugiere un efecto antioxidante. Conclusión: Estos resultados sugieren un efecto antioxidante de los prebióticos que podría atribuirse a un aumento de la expresión génica de p16 (AU)

Use of defatted flaxseed meal reduces precancerous colon lesions in C57BL/6 mice

PURPOSE: To investigate the hemopreventive effect of defatted flaxseed meal in C57BL/6 mice after induction of precancerous colon lesions with 1.2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). METHODS: Thirty-six 12-week-old C57BL/6 mice were divided into three treatment groups(n=12 in each group): (1) diet with 10% defatted flaxseed meal; (2) diet with defatted flaxseed meal and precancerous colon lesions induced by DMH; and (3) precancerous colon lesions induced by DMH, without defatted flaxseed meal. The incidence of aberrant crypt foci (ACF), oxidative processes, expression of tumor suppressor proteins and cyclins, as well as the profile of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in animal feces were investigated in the presence and absence of DMH. RESULTS: The rats consuming defatted flaxseed meals showed lesions with lower multiplicity and a reduced incidence of lesions. No changes in the expression of tumor suppressor proteins and those involved in cell cycle control were detected. CONCLUSION: Defatted flaxseed meal protected the distal colon of mice from precancerous lesions.

Use of defatted flaxseed meal reduces precancerous colon lesions in C57BL/6 mice.

PURPOSE: To investigate the hemopreventive effect of defatted flaxseed meal in C57BL/6 mice after induction of precancerous colon lesions with 1.2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). METHODS: Thirty-six 12-week-old C57BL/6 mice were divided into three treatment groups(n=12 in each group): (1) diet with 10% defatted flaxseed meal; (2) diet with defatted flaxseed meal and precancerous colon lesions induced by DMH; and (3) precancerous colon lesions induced by DMH, without defatted flaxseed meal. The incidence of aberrant crypt foci (ACF), oxidative processes, expression of tumor suppressor proteins and cyclins, as well as the profile of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in animal feces were investigated in the presence and absence of DMH. RESULTS: The rats consuming defatted flaxseed meals showed lesions with lower multiplicity and a reduced incidence of lesions. No changes in the expression of tumor suppressor proteins and those involved in cell cycle control were detected. CONCLUSION: Defatted flaxseed meal protected the distal colon of mice from precancerous lesions.

Safety evaluation of the antimicrobial peptide bovicin HC5 orally administered to a murine model.

BACKGROUND: Bovicin HC5 is an antimicrobial peptide that shows a broad spectrum of activity and potential for biotechnological and therapeutic applications. To gain insight about the safety of bovicin HC5 application, the histological and immunostimulatory effects of orally administrated bovicin HC5 to BALB/c mice were evaluated. BALB/c mice were divided into three groups: negative control (NC group); mice given purified bovicin HC5 (Bov group); mice given ovalbumin (positive control, PC group; a murine model of enteropathy). The mice were initially pre-sensitized, and PBS, bovicin HC5 or ovalbumin were administered for 30 days by daily gavages. Histological and morphometric analysis were performed and the relative expression of cytokines was analyzed by real-time RT-PCR. RESULTS: The oral administration of bovicin HC5 to BALB/c mice reduced weight gain and caused alterations in the small intestine, although absorptive changes have not been detected. The number of total goblet cells and the mucopolysaccharides production were not affected by bovicin HC5 administration. A hypertrophy of Paneth cells and an increase in the number of mitotic cells were observed in Bov group, while the number of mast cells remained unaltered. Increased expression of TNF-α, INF-γ and IL-12 was observed in the small intestine upon bovicin HC5 administration. CONCLUSION: Bovicin HC5 has only minor effects on intestinal permeability and did not elicit an allergenic response upon oral administration to animal models. Considering the low in vivo toxicity of bovicin HC5, it might be a good candidate for enteral applications.

Treinamento físico para indivíduos HIV positivo submetidos à HAART: efeitos sobre parâmetros antropométricos e funcionais / Physical training for HIV positive individuals submitted to HAART: effects on anthropometric and functional parameters

INTRODUÇÃO: A terapia antirretroviral fortemente ativa (HAART) tem melhorado a prognose em indivíduos infectados pelo HIV. No entanto, a HAART tem sido associada ao desenvolvimento de anormalidades metabólicas e na distribuição de gordura corporal conhecida como síndrome lipodistrófica associada ao HIV (SLHIV). OBJETIVO: Este estudo investigou o impacto de 24 semanas de exercício resistido com componente aeróbico (ERCA) sobre parâmetros antropométricos e funcionais de portadores de HIV submetidos à HAART. MÉTODOS: Noventa e nove indivíduos infectados pelo HIV foram randomicamente alocados em quatro grupos: exercício e lipodistrofia (n = 24; EX+LIP); exercício sem lipodistrofia (n = 21; EX+NoLIP); controle e lipodistrofia (n = 27; NoEX+LIP); controle sem lipodistrofia (n = 27; NoEX+NoLIP). Os indivíduos dos grupos exercitados (EX+LIP e EX+NoLIP) participaram de 24 semanas de ERCA. Nos momentos pré e pós 24 semanas de intervenção foram realizadas medidas antropométricas, testes de força e aptidão cardiorrespiratória. RESULTADOS: Vinte e quatro semanas de ERCA alteraram os perímetros corporais avaliados (P < 0,0001) e a relação cintura/quadril (P = 0,017) nos dois grupos exercitados. Reduções foram observadas (P < 0,0001) para o somatório das sete dobras cutâneas avaliadas, percentual de gordura corporal, massa corporal gorda, gordura subcutânea total, central e periférica em resposta ao ERCA. A massa corporal magra aumentou (P < 0,0001) nos grupos exercitados, independente do desfecho (LIP ou NoLIP). A força muscular e a aptidão cardiorrespiratória aumentaram (P < 0,0001), para os dois grupos exercitados em resposta ao ERCA. CONCLUSÃO: Vinte e quatro semanas de ERCA impediram a manifestação das alterações decorrentes da SLHIV e contribuíram para a redução destas.

INTRODUCTION: The use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has improved the prognosis of HIV-infected individuals. However, HAART has been associated with the development of metabolic and fat distribution abnormalities, known as HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (SLHIV). OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the impact of 24 weeks of resistance exercise with aerobic component (REAC) on anthropometric and functional parameters in HIV-infected patients undergoing HAART. METHODS: Ninety- nine HIV-infected patients were randomly allocated into four groups: exercise and lipodystrophy (n = 24; EX + LIP); exercise without lipodystrophy (n = 21; EX + NoLIP); control and lipodystrophy (n = 27; NoEX + LIP); control without lipodystrophy (n = 27; NoEX + NoLIP). Subjects from exercised groups (EX+LIP and EX+NoLIP) participated in a 24-week REAC program. Anthropometric, strength and cardiorespiratory fitness tests were assessed at baseline and 24 weeks after intervention. RESULTS: Body circumferences (P < 0.0001) and waist-hip ratio (P = 0.017) changed after 24 weeks of REAC in both exercised groups. The sum of seven skinfolds assessed, body fat percentage, body fat mass, total fat, central fat and peripheral subcutaneous fat reduced (P < 0.0001) in response to REAC. Lean body mass increased (P < 0.0001) in exercised groups, regardless of the outcome (LIP or NoLIP). Strength and cardiorespiratory fitness increased (P < 0.0001) in both exercised groups in response to REAC. CONCLUSION: 24 weeks of REAC prevented the manifestation of changes arising from SLHIV and contributed to the reduction of these.

O vírus Epstein-Barr e a mononucleose infecciosa / Epstein-Barr virus and infectious mononucleosis

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A mononucleose infecciosa (MI) é uma doença viral, contagiosa, causada pelo vírus Epstein-Barr (EBV). Apresenta distribuição universal e pode ocorrer em qualquer faixa etária. O presente estudo teve como objetivo descrever a interação entre o EBV e o Homo sapiens sapiens, no que diz respeito especialmente à MI. Para isso, realizou busca no Pubmed e no Scielo, bem como em livros-textos. Os artigos selecionados foram lidos e as informações organizadas de forma a contemplar os aspectos patogênicos - enfatizando o papel do EBV na doença -, epidemiológicos e diagnósticos dessa entidade. CONTEÚDO: A infecção do epitélio da orofaringe permite a replicação do vírus, o qual passa a ser eliminado na saliva, o que explica a transmissão pelo contato com tal fluido biológico. O período de incubação é de quatro a seis semanas. Manifesta-se do ponto de vista clínico, usualmente, com febre, faringite e linfadenomegalia generalizada de caráter agudo ou subagudo. As alterações laboratoriais incluem leucocitose, reações leucemoides, trombocitopenia e anemia hemolítica autoimune, além de aminotransferases elevadas e bilirrubina aumentada, destacando-se que a linfocitose atípica é habitualmente observada. O diagnóstico diferencial da MI abrange as demais causas de síndrome de mononucleose. O tratamento é sintomático, não havendo fármaco antiviral específico. Analgésicos habituais podem ser usados para a terapêutica da dor. CONCLUSÃO: Díspares grupos têm trabalhando no desenvolvimento de vacinas para o EBV, porém, a possibilidade de tumorigênese pelo vírus tem trazido inúmeras dificuldades para a confecção de imunoprofilaxia efetiva.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Infectious mononucleosis (IM) is a widespread viral disease caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It occurs worldwide and can reach any age group. This article aims at describing the interaction between EBV and Homo sapiens sapiens, regarding especially IM. Thus, a research on PubMed and Scielo was performed, as well as on books. The selected articles were read and the information was organized inorder to contain the pathological - emphasizing the role of EBV on the disease -, epidemiological aspects and its diagnosis. CONTENTS: The infection of the epithelium of the oropharynx leads to the replication of the virus, which is eliminated via saliva, and accounts for the transmission through contact with this biological fluid. The incubation period lasts from four to six weeks. Clinically, the classic symptoms are usually fever, faryngitis and generalized lymphadenopathy, which can be acute or subacute. The laboratorial changes include leukocytosis, leukemoid reactions, thrombocytopenia and severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia, besides high levels of transaminases and bilirubin; atypical lymphocytosis is usually observed. The differential diagnosis of IM includes the other causes of mononucleosis syndrome. Treatment is symptomatic and there is not a specific antiviral medicine. Common analgesics can be used to treat pain. CONCLUSION: Diverse groups have worked on the development of a vaccine for EBV; however, the possibility of tumorigenesis by the virus has brought up several difficulties to the production of an effective immunoprophylaxis.

Linfócitos T CD4+CD25+ e a regulação do sistema imunológico: perspectivas para o entendimento fisiopatológico da sepse / CD4+CD25+ T lymphocytes and regulation of the immune system: perspectives for a pathophysiological understanding of sepsis

A resposta inflamatória sistêmica representa o evento patogênico central da sepse, subjazendo às manifestações clínicas e aos achados laboratoriais presentes nos enfermos. Inúmeras pesquisas têm demonstrado que os linfócitos T CD4+CD25+ - também conhecidos como células T reguladoras (Treg) - participam dos processos de desenvolvimento da sepse, em virtude de sua capacidade de suprimir a resposta imune. Com base nessas ideias, propôs-se, no presente artigo, a discussão do papel dos linfócitos Treg na sepse, com base na revisão da literatura com estratégia de busca definida (LILACS, PubMed e SciELO), tendo em vista duas abordagens principais: a participação dessas células nos processos de inflamação e imunidade, e as perspectivas de investigação fisiopatológica computacional da condição mórbida.

The systemic inflammatory response represents the core pathogenic event of sepsis, underlying clinical manifestations and laboratory findings in patients. Numerous studies have shown that CD4+CD25+ T lymphocytes, also known as regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg), participate in the development of sepsis due to their ability to suppress the immune response. The present article discusses the role of Treg lymphocytes in sepsis based on a specific search strategy (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences / Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde - LILACS, PubMed, and Scientific Electronic Library Online - SciELO) focusing on two main topics: the participation of Treg cells in inflammation and immunity as well as perspectives in the computational physiological investigation of sepsis.

CD4+CD25+ T lymphocytes and regulation of the immune system: perspectives for a pathophysiological understanding of sepsis. / Linfócitos T CD4+CD25+ e a regulação do sistema imunológico: perspectivas para o entendimento fisiopatológico da sepse.

The systemic inflammatory response represents the core pathogenic event of sepsis, underlying clinical manifestations and laboratory findings in patients. Numerous studies have shown that CD4+CD25+ T lymphocytes, also known as regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg), participate in the development of sepsis due to their ability to suppress the immune response. The present article discusses the role of Treg lymphocytes in sepsis based on a specific search strategy (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences / Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde - LILACS, PubMed, and Scientific Electronic Library Online - SciELO) focusing on two main topics: the participation of Treg cells in inflammation and immunity as well as perspectives in the computational physiological investigation of sepsis.

Investigação de surto de hepatite A no Município de Ibiracatu, Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, 2008 / Investigation of hepatitis A outbreak in the Municipality of Ibiracatu, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, 2008

OBJETIVO: descrever a investigação de um surto de hepatite A no município de Ibiracatu, estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, e relatar as medidas de controle adotadas. MÉTODOS: estudo descritivo do tipo série de casos; a investigação seguiu o roteiro de investigação de epidemia/surto do Ministério da Saúde. RESULTADOS: foram contabilizados 16 casos, sendo três confirmados por vínculo clínico-epidemiológico e 13 por pesquisa de anticorpo anti-VHAIgM; a maior incidência da doença foi em infantes de até dez anos de idade, dos quais a metade era de estudantes de uma escola pública local. CONCLUSÃO: as condições oferecidas pela escola favoreceram a disseminação da doença e as medidas realizadas para conter a veiculação viral foram adequadas e promoveram queda considerável na incidência da doença; o monitoramento epidemiológico e as medidas de intervenção colaboraram efetivamente para o rápido controle do surto.

OBJECTIVE: to describe the investigation of a hepatitis A outbreak in the municipality of Ibiracatu, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, and to report the control measures taken. METHODS: descriptive study of case series type; the investigation followed the guideline for outbreak investigation of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. RESULTS: 16 cases were accounted, from which three were confirmedby clinical-epidemiological criteria and 13 by seropositiveness for anti-HAV Ig Mantibody; the highest prevalence was observed in children aged up to ten years old, from which 50 per cent were students of a local public school. CONCLUSION: the school conditions contributed to spreading the disease. The control measures taken to contain the viral transmission were appropriate and promoted a significant decrease in the disease incidence; the surveillance and control measures applied contributed to the quick control of the outbreak.

O papel do exercício na era da terapia antiretroviral fortemente ativa / The role of exercise in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy

O vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV), disseminado em todo o mundo, é o agente responsável pela síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida (Aids). No entanto, a proposta terapêutica denominada de High Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) — terapia anti-retroviral fortemente ativa veio proporcionar significativo aumento na sobrevida aos pacientes soropositivos. Entretanto, portadores de HIV submetidos à (HAART) podem apresentar redistribuição da gordura corporal, ou seja, síndrome lipodistrófica do HIV (SLHIV). De acordo com estudos revisados, o exercício físico pode ser utilizado como coadjuvante à terapia (HAART), uma vez que beneficia diversos aspectos da saúde e qualidade de vida de soro-positivos.

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), widespread throughout the world, is the agent for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). However, the proposed treatment called Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) – offers significant increase in survival of AIDS people. However,patients with HIV undergoing therapy (HAART) may have body fat redistribution, or HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (SLHIV). According to studies reviewed, the exercise can be used as adjuvant therapy (HAART), it benefits various aspects of health and quality of life of seropositive.

Cafeína não altera os níveis de Imunoglobulina A Salivar (IgA-s) em jogadores de voleibol / Caffeine does not change Salivary Immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) levels in volleyball players / Cafeína no altera los niveles de imunoglobulina salivar, en jugadores de voleibol

Avaliou-se a influência da ingestão de cafeína na resposta da imunoglobulina A salivar (IgA-s) em atletas de voleibol. Usou-se o modelo crossover e duplo-cego. Nove atletas participaram de duas sessões de treino e ingeriram cafeína (6mg/kg de peso corporal) ou placebo. Analisou-se a concentração de IgA-s antes e após as sessões. Os resultados mostraram que não houve diferença significativa (P > 0,05) nos níveis de IgA-s pré e pós-treino nos atletas que ingeriram CAF (8,54 ± 4,03 mg/dL e 7,45 ± 4,72 mg/dL, respectivamente), bem como naqueles que tomaram PLA (6,88 ± 3,17 mg/dL e 9,76 ± 5,81 mg/dL, respectivamente). Concluiu-se que a suplementação adotada não afetou a resposta da IgA-s durante as sessões de treino realizadas pelos atletas de voleibol.

We tested the influence of caffeine (CAF) ingestion on the salivary immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) of volleyball's athletes. In a cross-over and double blind way, nine male volleyball players performed two training sessions within 15 days interval when ingested either CAF (6 mg/kg b.w.) or placebo (PLA) one hour before. The levels of s-IgA were measured at rest and after exercise. The results showed that the levels of s-IgA at rest were not statistically different (P>0.05) from those after exercise when athletes ingested either CAF (8.54 ± 4.03 mg/dL and 7.45 ± 4.72 mg/dL, respectively) or PLA (6.88 ± 3.17 mg/dL and 9.76 ± 5.81 mg/dL, respectively). It is concluded that caffeine ingestion did not affect the s-IgA response during the training session performed by the athletes.

Se avalio la influencia de la ingestión de cafeína en la respuesta de a inmunoglobulina A salivar (IgA-s) en atletas de voleibol se uso el modelo crossover y doble-cego. Nueve atletas participaran de dos sesiones de entrenamiento y ingirieron cafeína (6 mg de peso corporal) o placebo. Se analizo la concentración de IgA-s antes y después de la sesión. Los resultados mostraron que no hubo diferencia significativa (P > 0,05) en los niveles de (IgA-s) pre e pos entrenamiento en los atetas que ingirieron CAF (8,54 ± 4,03 mg/dL e 7,45 ± 4,72 mg/dL, respectivamente) como en aquellos que tomaron PLA (6,88 ± 3,17 mg/dL e 9,76 ± 5,81 mg/dL, respectivamente). Se concluyo que la suplementación adoptada no afecto la respuesta de la IgA-s durante las sesiones del entrenamiento realizados por los atletas de voleibol.

Imunoglobulina A salivar (IgA-s) e exercício: relevância do controle em atletas e implicações metodológicas / Salivary immunoglobulin A (s-lgA) and exercise: relevance of its control in athletes and methodological implications

O objetivo do presente estudo é realizar uma análise e discussão dos principais achados envolvendo o comportamento da imunoglobulina A salivar (IgA-s) em relação ao estímulo do exercício e evidenciar a importância de seu controle em atletas. O exercício físico é um importante modulador das características do sistema imune, sobretudo do comportamento da IgA-s, componente fundamental na proteção de infecções do trato respiratório superior (ITRS). No entanto, a relação direta entre baixas concentrações de IgA-s e ITRS precisa de mais evidências para ser confirmada. As concentrações de IgA-s durante e logo após um exercício intenso diminuem, deixando o indivíduo mais suscetível à infecção, porém, atletas envolvidos em atividades extenuantes não são clinicamente imunodeficientes, comparados com indivíduos sedentários. Essas modificações são transitórias, com retorno aos valores normais após aproximadamente 48 horas de repouso. A razão dessas alterações não é clara, mas se apresenta multifatorial: elevação de hormônios estressores; fatores nutricionais; ação de espécies reativas de oxigênio; e estresse psicológico. Apesar do efeito transitório das alterações provocadas nos elementos do sistema imune frente ao exercício, observa-se diferença na variabilidade da IgA-s em populações com diferentes níveis de condicionamento. Diferenças metodológicas - como o protocolo de exercício, o método de coleta, armazenamento e manipulação da saliva, a forma de expressão da IgA-s, o nível de hidratação, o controle da dieta, a sazonalidade do período de competição, a aclimatação entre outros fatores - devem ser levadas em consideração para comparação entre os estudos. Além disso, ajudam a explicar, em parte, os resultados adversos envolvendo exercício moderado e os intermitentes, em que se encontram aumento, redução e até ausência de alteração nos níveis de IgA-s. Investigações de elementos inovadores, como os toll-like receptors, e o avanço tecnológico podem ...

The present study aimed to discuss the main findings involving salivary immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) and exercise and evidence the importance of the control in athletes. Exercise is a great modulator of immune system characteristics such as the s-IgA that exerts important defense against upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). However, more evidence is needed to confirm a direct association between low levels of s-IgA and URTI. The level of s-IgA decreases after a high-intense exercise, increasing thus, the individual's susceptibility to infection, but athletes engaged in exhausting exercise are not clinically immune-deficient compared with sedentary subjects. The changes in s-IgA are transitory returning to normal status in approximately 48-h rest. The reason of these alterations remains unclear, but many causes have been investigated: hormones stressors rise; nutrition influences; action of reactive oxygen species, psychological stress. Despite the transitory effects of the exercise on the immune system, the variability in s-IgA differs in populations with different fitness levels. Differences in exercise protocols, saliva collection, manipulation or storage methods, the method used to assess s-IgA, subject's hydration status, dietary control, competition's seasonality, acclimatization, among other factors should be considered to compare different studies. In addition, these factors could partially explain the adverse results of studies involving moderate and intermittent exercise that have found increase, decrease and no changes in s-IgA levels. Investigations of recent immunologic issues such as the toll like-receptors and the advances in technology may contribute to increase the evidence on this issue.